Houston-area athletes shine at U.S. Olympic track and field events

Eugene, Oregon – The U.S. Olympic track and field trials in Eugene, Oregon, have concluded, and several Houston-area athletes competed for a chance to represent the United States at the Paris Olympics.

Among the highlights, Alaysha Johnson of SpringTexas, earned her ticket to Paris by running a personal best time in the 100-meter hurdles and placing second overall in the event. “I knew I was going to make it, and honestly, I was like, ‘Wow, I’m glad it’s over, I’m glad I can move on, and I’m glad I got to show everybody who I knew I was,’” Johnson said.

Brynn King of The WoodlandsTexas, made her debut on Team USA, clearing the pole vault bar at 4.73 meters, a personal best for the elite track star who finished third at the Olympic Trials. “I’m still in a little bit of shock. I’m really excited, but honestly, I still can’t believe I did it. I mean, I’ve dreamed of it, and I haven’t jumped at this level in a very long time, so the fact that I made the team this year is crazy,” King shared.

Jacob Wooten, a pole vaulter from Tomball, tied for second in the pole vault, earning him a spot on Team USA.

While some local athletes were disappointed in Oregon, their efforts were commendable. Jaiya Covington of Houston and Alexandra Webster of The Woodlands nearly qualified for the 100-meter hurdles finals for Team USA but fell short. Covington remained hopeful, saying, “It just takes patience and time, and it will come.” Similarly, Webster expressed her desire to continue her athletic career and one day become a professional athlete.

In the men’s 200-meter race, Wheatley High School graduate Robert Gregory finished 7th overall, narrowly missing a berth in Paris. He had planned to take a short break before resuming training for his next opportunity to make the team.

Sydni Townsend of the University of Houston reached the finals of the women’s 400-meter hurdles but narrowly missed out on making the team. “At the end of the day, I’m grateful to have run with these girls, to have the experience here. It’s my first tryout, so the experience was good, but yeah, bittersweet,” Townsend said.

UofH’s De’Vion Wilson made the 110-meter hurdles finals but failed to make the U.S. team.

Other Houston-area athletes who participated in the trials included:

• Raevyn Rogers of Houston competed in the women’s 400 meters.

• Kyle Sieracki of Tomball participated in the decathlon.

• Matthew Boling of Houston competed in the 400 meters.

• Brice Deadmon of Missouri City, competed in the 400 meters.

• Jevon O’Bryant of Houston competed in the men’s 400 meters.

• Ahumado Robinson of Spring competed in the men’s 400 meters.

• Craig Nowak of Houston competed in the men’s 3,000-meter steeplechase.

We are proud of all the Houston-area athletes who competed in this year’s Olympic Trials. Their journey and accomplishments deserve to be celebrated, and we look forward to cheering on those who made it to Team USA in Paris.